Airplane Wreck, Moalboal: artificial reef diving

The Airplane Wreck site in Moalboal offers a unique dive experience centering around a two-seater Cessna biplane, intentionally sunk over three decades ago. This aircraft was placed as an artificial reef project by the Savedra Dive Center, transforming a sandy slope into a vibrant underwater ecosystem. You'll find it north of Moalboal, about a 20-minute fast boat ride towards Ronda Bay, making for a straightforward approach to the site.

Upon descent, you'll encounter the plane itself, resting between 18 and 20 meters. This depth makes the main structure accessible for Open Water divers. While the plane serves as the central feature, the surrounding sandy slope and deeper wall also contribute to the dive's interest. The light penetration at this depth allows for clear views of the wreck and its resident marine inhabitants, offering a distinct contrast to the nearby wall dives Moalboal is known for.

The wreck now serves as a permanent home for various reef fish. You're likely to see triggerfish (Balistidae) navigating around the plane's structure and schools of sweetlips (Haemulidae) sheltering within. Turtles are also regular visitors, often seen grazing on the corals or resting nearby. The deliberate sinking created a diverse habitat, supporting a mix of marine life that thrives on both the artificial structure and the surrounding natural environment.

Beyond the wreck, the site transitions into a deep wall, known for its macro opportunities and colorful corals. While the Airplane itself rests on a sandy bottom, offering a different topography from the vertical walls of other Moalboal sites, the nearby wall still draws attention from divers. This combination of wreck, sand, and wall provides varied dive profiles, allowing for exploration of both habitat types within a single dive.

Visibility at the Airplane Wreck is generally consistent, allowing for clear observation of both the plane and the smaller macro life. The current here is typically mild, making for a relaxed exploration of the wreck and its immediate surroundings. This allows you to take your time studying the details of the plane and observing the resident creatures without fighting against strong water movement.